Computed Tomography
About the Program
The Computed Tomography Certificate program prepares the post-graduate registered radiologic technologist to use x-rays and computed radiologic technology to produce cross-sectional anatomical images of the human body. Computed Tomography (CT) technologists operate CT scanners, picture archiving and communication systems and related equipment.
The Computed Tomography Certificate program is a two-semester on-line didactic course with a clinical practicum experience. The Computed Tomography Certificate Program is designed to provide the working Radiologic Technologist with the theoretical background and documented clinical experience necessary to sit for the Computed Tomography registry examination offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT).
Technical Performance Standards
The admissions policies of the Computed Tomography Program do not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, marital status, age or mental/physical handicaps. The following is an outline of performance standards relative to Computed Tomography. In addition to the academic requirement for the Computed Tomography Program, all applicants must be able to:
- Communicate to the patient in order to converse and instruct
- Hear a patient speak in a normal tone from a distance of 20 feet.
- Observe the patient in order to assess the patient’s condition or needs from a distance of 20 feet.
- Read the patient medical chart and/or physician orders.
- Transport, move, lift or transfer patients from a wheelchair or litter to an x-ray table or to a patient's bed;
- Move, adjust and manipulate a variety of x-ray equipment with respect to the patient and image receptor according to established procedures and standards of speed and accuracy ( to include mobile equipment) and;
- Physically place patients in proper positions for x-ray examinations according to established procedures and standards of speed and accuracy.
- Handling stressful situations related to technical, procedural or patient care situations; providing physical and emotional support to patients during procedures;
- Physically be able to administer emergency care including performing CPR
- Visually reviewing and evaluating radiographic images to identify shades of gray, proper patient positions, proper exposure factors, and other appropriate technical qualities.
Program Mission
The mission of the Computed Tomography Program is to provide each student with the instruction, skills, and learning experiences to become a compassionate, knowledgeable, and competent entry-level Computed Tomography Technologist.
Program Goals
- Function as competent, entry-level professionals.
- Students will be able to adequately perform procedures at entry level competence.
- Students will select appropriate technical factors for quality patient exams.
- Students will demonstrate proper radiation practices.
- Demonstrate appropriate, professional communication skills.
- Students will demonstrate effective communication strategies during the clinical experience.
- Students will practice written communication skills
- Develop and practice effective problem-solving skills and critical thinking skills.
- Students will be able to adequately perform non-routine procedures at entry level competence.
- Students will be able to adequately alter technical factors in non-routine situations.
- Conduct him/herself in a professional manner.
- Students will demonstrate professional behavior
- Students will recognize the benefits of professional development
Admission Procedures
Admission to the Computed Tomography Certificate program is open only to current Radiologic Technologists certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) or Nuclear Medicine Technologist certified by Nuclear Medicine Technologist Certification Board (NMTCB). To apply for the Computed Tomography Certification Program, please complete the following steps:
- Submit an application to Bucks County Community College.
- Submit previous college transcripts, if applicable, for evaluation by the Admissions Department.
- Submit completed Computed Tomography Application
- Submit current ARRT credential card or current NMTCB card via email to Program Director of Radiography.
Applications will be accepted from May 1st- June 15th of each year. Accepted students will be notified by July 1st.
Program Director of Radiography:
Colleen Cardilla
267-685-4821
colleen.cardilla@bucks.edu
Clinical Education Requirements
The number students accepted into clinical education (RADI310 and RADI325) for computed tomography will be equal to the number of available clinical spaces.
Once accepted into the Computed Tomography Clinical Courses, students will be required to:
- Purchase a Computed Tomography uniform from the preferred uniform vendor.
- Assume all responsibility for transportation to and from the clinical sites assigned.
- Obtain and maintain current CPR certification.
- Obtain and maintain Immunization records.
- Complete an FBI Fingerprint Criminal Background Check, a PA Criminal Background check, Child Abuse clearance and drug screening (until clearance is received, program acceptance is provisional and may be rescinded).
- Show proof of health insurance coverage for the student.
Certificate Requirements